Before I created Revival Ink, I was a struggling to put myself through college for art. I had just moved to Seattle from a small town, and didn’t know anyone. I was working a lot, in addition to classes, and wondering how I would have time to meet people.
Then one day, I discovered screen printing. I was in love with the process. I found a direct way to get my art out there, in front of others. I started wearing my shirts to school. People noticed them, and it became a conversation starter. I started making friends.
I was overjoyed.
I wanted to make more of my funky shirts, but due to my heavy work-load, I kept missing the printing class. I needed to purchase my own screen printing equipment so I could print whenever I found time (which was usually in the middle of the night). A lack of funds made this dream seem impossible.
But then...
My teacher and some of my new friends encouraged me. I realized I was on the right path after all. I was able to use my tax refund to purchase a simple screen printing setup.
It turns out... the road was more difficult than I imagined.
I started out printing on shirts from the thrift store, but soon people wanted new, stylish shirts. Quality shirts were hard to come by, and expensive! I worried my customers wouldn’t pay enough for my shirts to cover these costs. I didn’t know how to find more customers, so I could meet the order minimums required by shirt suppliers.
But then...
A friend of mine told me about a farmers market where I could get a booth for a low fee. I took the risk, set up a tent, and had a very successful first day. I made enough to pay for my first box of shirts. I have been selling at local markets, and festivals ever since.
For over 12 years... I've been sharing my wearable art with people all over the world. I even had a brick and mortar store in Seattle for 6 years. Eventually I sold my store, to re-focus on what I love most: illustrating unique shirts for the wild at heart, like me. There have been a lot of ups and downs, but through it all, my customer response and engagement has been amazing. That is what keeps me going: creating smiles, encouraging others to be adventurous, and finding so many special friendships along the way.
Thank you all for your support!